Distribution Center Ops Manager
So you think you might like to become a distribution center operations manager. . .
A distribution center operations manager oversees groups of workers dedicated to the shipping, receiving, and storing of products. The manager also plans the activities and operations within the organization's distribution center with a departmental budget in mind. A distribution manager develops policies and procedures that maximize efficiency and performance. A distribution manager supervises staff and ensures that all employees are trained and following policies and regulations.
Career Requirements
So what are the career requirements?
| Degree Level | Bachelor's degree preferred by most employers |
| Degree Field | Business; operations management; supply chain management, logistics, or a related field |
| Experience | 2+ years of related experience |
| Key Skills | Management; customer service; production; problem solving, critical thinking, listening, speaking, writing and reasoning abilities; industry software skills, including inventory management software; materials requirements, planning logistics ,and supply chain software; and project management software |
| Median Salary (2018)* | $94,730 (for a distribution center manager) |
Sources: O NET Online, Job postings (December 2012), *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Step 1: Earn a Bachelor's Degree
Most employers prefer prospective managers to have a bachelor's degree. Candidates may want to pursue a degree program in business administration with concentrations in either operations management or supply chain management. Examples of coursework within an undergraduate program are service operations, logistics and distribution, marketing, and cost management systems.
Step 2: Gain Experience
Work part-time to gain experience. Candidates can benefit from an entry-level, part-time job while completing a degree program. Students who work at distribution operation centers while in school can gain valuable experience. Since most employers are seeking some prior work experience as well as a bachelor's degree, having a job in the industry will enhance job prospects following graduation.
Complete an internship program. Internships provide students with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in distribution operations centers. Such programs are generally completed toward the end of a degree program.
Step 3: Apply for a Position
Managers in distribution centers must have good leadership, organization, and communication skills to effectively direct a team of workers. Applicants may initially start out in entry-level jobs in which they can learn about distribution center operations and supply chain management before being promoted to higher-level positions. Jobs tend to be found in large distribution centers utilized by multiple companies, although some companies may have their own warehouses.
Obtaining a bachelor's degree, gaining some experience, and then applying for positions are the steps to get you started with a great career as a distribution center operations manager.
